MIDDLEBURY-Winston “Wink” Forbes, 75, of Middlebury, died Thursday June 3, 2021, after a hard-fought, five-year battle with cancer. His son and grandson were by his side. 

Wink was born Dec. 26, 1945. in Middlebury, Vt., the son of Harold and Vena (Quesnel) Forbes. A hard worker his entire life, Wink worked for 40-plus years for JP Carrara and Sons in East Middlebury, where he drove a mixer. He could often be spotted with a big smile waving as he drove through downtown Middlebury.

Wink was happiest when sitting by the fire with his family. He was an avid hunter, traveling around New England in search of the perfect buck. He enjoyed fishing, gardening and watching NASCAR on Sundays.

Wink is survived by his sons Kelly (Jennifer) and Todd (Kye Sun) and his daughter Wendy. He also leaves behind his beloved grandchildren, Hannah, Winston, Mellissa, Katherine, Daniel, Lindsey and Ethan. Additionally, Wink is survived by his two great-grandsons, Easton and Beariston. He also leaves behind his faithful companion Toby the dog, who was of great comfort to him.

He was predeceased by his parents Harold and Vena as well as his loving wife, Coleen, who passed in 2016. Wink and Coleen spent 46 years together sharing many laughs and moments with family. His family and friends alike recognized in Wink the profound willingness to “give you the shirt off his back” regardless if doing so was easy or not. He was exceptionally kind and willing to help anyone with almost anything.

A celebration of life will be held at the Addison County VFW Post 7823 in Middlebury at 2 p.m., on Saturday, June 12. In lieu of flowers, please donate to McClure Miller Respite House in Colchester. This amazing facility provided Wink with phenomenal care in his final days.◊